Netflix made available in Macau, Hong Kong

The American Internet streaming pioneer Netflix launched its over-the-top (OTT) service on Friday in the company’s 130 new markets, including Macau and Hong Kong, with bargain offers.
OTT applications deliver services over the Internet and bypass traditional distribution channels from telecommunications, cable or satellite network operators.
The South China Morning Post reported on Friday that Netflix provides three plans in Hong Kong with monthly fees of HKD63, HKD78 and HKD93, respectively, similar to Macau. Under each of these plans, users can enjoy unlimited access to movies and television shows on laptops, televisions, phones and tablets, making it significantly cheaper than cable or satellite network operators.
“The prices it offered are extremely competitive,” said Harry Yuen, senior analyst at Bright Smart Securities. He noted that HKD63 is even cheaper than a movie ticket.” Yuen said that Netflix’s overseas success in Hong Kong will depend on how fast it can adapt to the local market.
Netflix can be accessed on the company’s website on laptops or computers, through the Netflix App on tablets, and through a Google Chromecast in order to connect Android tablets or phones to the television. The service requires a minimum internet connection speed of 0.5mbs, and it allows access to subtitles in selected programmes, including simplified and traditional Chinese.
Though SCMP claimed that although almost all new Netflix shows are available in Hong Kong, its experts found a large number of popular programs missing.
Netflix allows users to watch popular television series and movies on portable devices, unlike the Beijing-based LeTV, which needs to rely on a traditional TV screen and an accompanying box to be able to deliver services in Hong Kong.
Netflix, offering high-resolution content, provides a free one-month trial for users.